Top Coffee Books to Kickstart 2025

Top Coffee Books to Kickstart 2025

The start of a new year is the perfect time to refocus, recharge, and set fresh intentions. For many of us, that includes diving into new learning experiences and maybe even committing to reading more. Whether you’re looking to deepen your coffee knowledge, discover fresh perspectives, or simply enjoy a captivating story, this curated list has you covered.

I’ve selected books that reflect the diversity and richness of the coffee world, showcasing different voices, topics, and insights. From industry veterans to rising stars, this collection is perfect for coffee professionals, enthusiasts, and even the youngest coffee curious.

The World Atlas of Coffee by James Hoffmann

A staple for any coffee lover, this book takes you on a global tour of coffee origins, delving into how geography, processing, and farming impact flavour. With updated editions, it remains a definitive guide for understanding coffee’s journey from seed to cup. Perfect for anyone looking to gain a broad, foundational knowledge of coffee.

Sip 'n' Slurp – A Guide to Expert Coffee Tasting by Freda Yuan

Freda Yuan, a multi-time UK Cup Tasting Champion, offers an accessible guide to coffee sensory skills. Sip 'n' Slurp combines tasting techniques, personal anecdotes, and practical tips for improving your palate, making it an essential read for both enthusiasts and professionals. Ideal for anyone wanting to sharpen their sensory skills or explore coffee tasting in-depth.

Coffee Roasting Best Practices by Scott Rao

Considered the ultimate guide for coffee roasters, Scott Rao’s book dives into the science, data, and nuances of roasting. From airflow to roast curves, this is a must-read for anyone serious about roasting high-quality coffee. A must-have for roasters looking to master the art and science of their craft.

Cheap Coffee: Behind the Curtain of the Global Coffee Trade by Karl Wienhold

An eye-opening look at the hidden costs of cheap coffee, this book dives into the systemic issues affecting producers and the global supply chain. Wienhold’s analysis challenges readers to think critically about ethical sourcing and the true cost of their morning cup. Perfect for coffee professionals and conscious consumers aiming to understand the economics of coffee.

The Monk of Mokha by Dave Eggers

A compelling and emotional story following Mokhtar Alkhanshali, a Yemeni-American coffee entrepreneur, on his quest to revive Yemeni coffee. While the storytelling is engaging, it leans heavily on feelings over facts and has been clouded by controversy following legal allegations against Mokhtar for alleged racketeering. Great for readers who enjoy dramatic storytelling with a touch of adventure.

The Physics of Filter Coffee by Jonathan Gagné

A detailed exploration of brewing science, this book provides an advanced, technical perspective on how variables like flow rate, grind size, and temperature influence extraction. Perfect for brewing enthusiasts who love geeking out over precision and data.

From Nerd to Pro: A Coffee Journey by Patrik Rolf

Patrik Rolf, the founder of April Coffee Roasters, chronicles his career in the coffee industry with honesty and insight. This book offers lessons on roasting, competing, and entrepreneurship, inspiring readers to push boundaries in their coffee journey. A motivational read for aspiring coffee professionals or anyone interested in coffee entrepreneurship.

Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara

While not about coffee, this book offers incredible insights into customer service and creating memorable experiences. It’s a vital read for cafe owners and hospitality professionals who want to elevate their service beyond expectations. Perfect for anyone looking to redefine what great hospitality means in coffee or any industry.

My Barista ABCs by Christine Rollings

A charming and educational kids book that introduces coffee through the alphabet, making it fun and engaging for the whole family. Whether you’re sharing it with your little ones or brushing up on your coffee basics, this lighthearted read is a delightful addition to any coffee enthusiast’s collection. Perfect for Cole—and his reading level 😉

BOOKS!? So What?

From deep dives into the technical aspects of brewing and roasting to thought-provoking explorations of the global coffee trade, these books offer a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.

They help professionals sharpen their skills, challenge us to think critically about ethical and sustainable practices, and remind us of the importance of human connection in coffee culture.

Whether you’re looking for technical expertise, motivation, or a fresh perspective, these books spark meaningful conversations and push the coffee community forward. They’re not just about coffee they’re about how we approach craft, community, and curiosity.

Reading: Haha see above :)

Watching: Check out the massive livestream of last week’s Italian Barista Championship. Huge congratulations to Daniele Ricci for taking 1st place. See you in Milan!

Listening: Tune in to It’s Just Coffee with Matt Perger for a mix of coffee, AI, and unexpected topics that keep things interesting.

Brewing: Phew just water today.

respond with a photo of your brew bar or get creative with an AI generated scene and we’ll feature and share in an upcoming week of BTD

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